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1907 Carpenter Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50314
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515-286-2033
866-209-1300
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NGU
It means an infection of the tube through which a man or woman urinates that is not caused by gonorrhea. There are many germs that can cause this. This stands for "non-gonococcal urethritis."

How You Catch It:
  • Having sexual intercourse, oral sex or anal sex with person who is infected. Babies catch it during birth.
When Symptoms Show:
  • Most women have no early signs. Many men see signs in 1 to 3 weeks.
Signs of Infection:
  • Men and women can have burning when they urinate. A man may have a drip from his penis. A woman may have a discharge or burning in her vagina.
Problems:
  • If the infection is not treated, it can get into a person’s reproductive system. Men can have their sperm-carrying tubes block so they can’t be a father. Women can have a bad infection called PID that can keep them from ever having children. Babies can have eye, ear or lung infections.
Tests:
  • The liquid from a man’s penis or a woman’s vagina can be checked for infection. Results may not be given right away.
Treatment:
  • Usually antibiotics. A person should go back for more treatment if the first medicine does not work.
Other:
  • Any sex partner you have had in the last month should be tested and treated. Don’t have sex with anyone until the doctor or clinic says you have been cured.
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